What Does an NDT Researcher Do? An NDT researcher studies novel methods or new applications of current methods that could enable NDT practitioners to test assets more efficiently and/or safely to ensure these assets keep functioning according to quality standards.
Conducting experiments and studies in a variety of disciplines
Publishing your research in prestigious scientific journals
Editing and contributing to essential publications
Presenting your research at premier, interdisciplinary conferences and events
NDT (Non-Destructive Testing) certification is essential for technicians looking to work in the field of non-destructive testing. Some well-known, established sources for NDT certifications include:
ASNT offer NDT certification programs, including Level I, Level II, and Level III in different methods like ultrasonic testing, radiography, magnetic particle testing, liquid penetrant testing, and more.
BINDT provide certifications in ultrasonic testing, radiographic testing, eddy current testing, and other NDT methods.
American Welding Society (AWS): AWS offers certifications in various welding-related fields, including Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) and Certified Radiographic Interpreter (CRI).
Canadian Institute for Non-destructive Evaluation (CINDE): CINDE is Canada’s leading NDT certification body, providing certifications in ultrasonic testing, magnetic particle testing, liquid penetrant testing, and other NDT methods.
Note: Different countries and industries may have specific requirements for NDT certifications, check with potential employers or regulatory bodies to determine which certifications are most relevant to your career goals.
Nondestructive Testing (NDT) Plugs are engineered to allow repeat access for EPA/OSHA inspection and process safety management.
Plugs can be installed on insulated and non-insulated pipe, storage tanks, pressure vessels and petrochemical, oil and gas, steam and nuclear power generation facilities.
Engineered NDT2 inspection plugs consist of an elastomer sleeve, metal handle, metal cap, lanyard* and locking ring.
The elastomer sleeve consists of ethylene propylene (EPDM) or silicone (higher temps).
The metal caps can be 304 stainless steel or 5052 aluminum depending on the application.
* Note: lanyards are particularly useful in overhead conditions to prevent the cap from falling if dropped.
Regular access to pipes and equipment benefits areas of process safety management:
Safety NDT inspection plugs allow inspectors to safely access the inside of insulated pipes and equipment without removing the insulation. This helps to ensure the safety of the piping system.
Accuracy NDT inspection plugs help to ensure that thickness measurements are accurate. They also standardize the location of thickness measurements, which helps to protect the integrity of inspection data.
Time NDT inspection plugs reduce the time required for periodic inspections and tests. Once installed, access often.
Corrosion NDT inspection plugs provide a seal that can help protect against corrosion under insulation (CUI), chemical and UV exposure.
Stainless steel and aluminum are popular materials for NDT inspection plugs due to their specific properties that make them suitable for harsh environments.
Stainless Steel Plugs
Durability: Stainless steel is known for its high strength and durability, which makes it ideal for use in environments that experience high stress or mechanical wear.
Corrosion Resistance: It offers excellent resistance to corrosion, particularly from chemicals and moisture, making it suitable for applications in chemical plants, marine environments, and other areas where corrosion is a concern.
Temperature Resistance: Stainless steel can withstand extreme temperatures, both high and low, without losing its structural integrity, which is essential for various industrial applications.
Aluminum Plugs
Lightweight: Aluminum is significantly lighter than stainless steel, which makes it easier to handle and install, especially in applications where weight is a critical factor.
Corrosion Resistance: While not as corrosion-resistant as stainless steel, aluminum still offers good resistance to corrosion, particularly when it is anodized or coated, which makes it suitable for many industrial environments.
Conductivity: Aluminum has good thermal and electrical conductivity, which can be beneficial in certain NDT applications where these properties are required.
